U.S. patent number 11,351,084 [Application Number 16/600,205] was granted by the patent office on 2022-06-07 for muscle therapy device.
This patent grant is currently assigned to MOTIONWISE, LLC. The grantee listed for this patent is MOTIONWISE, LLC. Invention is credited to John Gifford.
United States Patent |
11,351,084 |
Gifford |
June 7, 2022 |
Muscle therapy device
Abstract
A muscle therapy device is provided. The muscle therapy device
includes a substantially ring-shaped member. The muscle therapy
device further includes first and second protrusion members that
are coupled to the substantially ring-shaped member and extend
radially inwardly from the substantially ring-shaped member. The
first protrusion member has a first length, and the second
protrusion member has a second length greater than the first
length. The muscle therapy device further includes first and second
tip members being coupled to the first and second protrusion
members, respectively.
Inventors: |
Gifford; John (Berkley,
MI) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MOTIONWISE, LLC |
Berkley |
MI |
US |
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Assignee: |
MOTIONWISE, LLC (Berkley,
MI)
|
Family
ID: |
1000004439536 |
Appl.
No.: |
16/600,205 |
Filed: |
October 11, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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15014512 |
Feb 3, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61H
7/003 (20130101); A61H 2201/1692 (20130101); A61H
2201/1253 (20130101); A61H 2201/0153 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A61H
7/00 (20060101) |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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0021481 |
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Apr 2000 |
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WO |
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WO-2015030487 |
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Mar 2015 |
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WO |
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Other References
Machine Translation of WO 2015030487A1 Description Only, printed on
Sep. 30, 2021 (Year: 2021). cited by examiner .
"Pro Massaging Hoop Exerciser with Magnet" at
http://www.amazon.com/Pro-Massaging-Hoop-Exerciser-Magnet/dp/B002OQDAL4/r-
ef=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1454436507&sr=8-1&keywords=pro+massaging+hoop+exerci-
ser+with+magnet, p. 1, date of retrieval Feb. 26, 2015. cited by
applicant.
|
Primary Examiner: Yao; Samchuan C
Assistant Examiner: Gallegos; Cana A
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Ward; Jacob M. Ward Law Office
LLC
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/014,512, filed on Feb. 3, 2016. The entire
disclosure of the above application is hereby incorporated herein
by reference.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A muscle therapy device, comprising: a ring shaped member, at
least a portion of the ring shaped member having an H-shaped cross
section defined by a channel and a center support member, each of
the channel and the center support member running a length of the
portion of the ring shaped member, wherein the H-shaped cross
section is adapted to stiffen the ring shaped member and the
channel is open and the center support member is exposed; at least
one protrusion member coupled to the ring shaped member, the at
least one protrusion member extending radially inwardly from the
ring shaped member; and at least one tip member disposed on the at
least one protrusion member.
2. The muscle therapy device of claim 1, wherein the ring shaped
member is comprised of a plurality of arcuate portions removably
coupled, including a first arcuate portion and a second arcuate
portion.
3. The muscle therapy device of claim 2, wherein each of the
plurality of arcuate portions has a main body, the main body having
at least a portion with the H-shaped cross section disposed between
a male end and a female end.
4. The muscle therapy device of claim 3, wherein the male end of
the first arcuate portion is selectively, removably coupled to the
female end of the second arcuate portion.
5. The muscle therapy device of claim 4, wherein the female end has
a hollow portion defined by at least one side wall.
6. The muscle therapy device of claim 5, wherein at least one
aperture is formed in the at least one side wall.
7. The muscle therapy device of claim 6, wherein the male end has
at least one button connector disposed on at least one side
wall.
8. The muscle therapy device of claim 7, wherein the button
connector of the male end of the first arcuate portion disposed in
the aperture of the female end of the second arcuate portion.
9. The muscle therapy device of claim 3, wherein each arcuate
portion has at least one hook.
10. The muscle therapy device of claim 9, wherein the at least one
hook disposed on the main body adjacent to at least one of the male
end and the female end.
11. The muscle therapy device of claim 10, wherein the at least one
hook includes a pair of hooks, with one of the pair of hooks
disposed adjacent to the male end and an other of the pair of hooks
disposed adjacent to the female end.
12. The muscle therapy device of claim 1, wherein the at least one
protrusion member is a plurality of protrusion members including a
first protrusion member and a second protrusion member.
13. The muscle therapy device of claim 1, wherein the at least one
protrusion member has a semi-circular shape.
14. The muscle therapy device of claim 1, wherein the at least one
protrusion member is a pair of protrusion members, including a
first protrusion member and a second protrusion member.
15. The muscle therapy device of claim 14, wherein the first
protrusion member is disposed on the ring shaped member opposite to
where the second protrusion member is disposed on the ring shaped
member.
16. The muscle therapy device of claim 3, wherein each of the
female end and the male end have at least one lock hole formed
therethrough.
17. The muscle therapy device of claim 16, wherein when the male
end of a first arcuate portion is inserted into the female end of a
second arcuate portion, the at least one lock hole of the female
end of the second arcuate portion is disposed above the at least
one lock hole of the male end of the first arcuate portion.
18. The muscle therapy device of claim 16, wherein the lock holes
are configured to receive a fastener.
19. A muscle therapy device, comprising: a ring shaped member, at
least a portion of the ring shaped member having an H-shaped cross
section defined by a channel and a center support member, each of
the channel and the center support member running a length of the
portion of the ring shaped member, wherein the H-shaped cross
section is adapted to stiffen the ring shaped member and the
channel is open and the center support member is exposed, the ring
shaped member having a plurality of arcuate portions including a
first arcuate portion and a second arcuate portion, each of the
plurality of arcuate portions having a main body, the main body
having at least a portion with the H-shaped cross section disposed
between a male end and a female end, the male end of the first
arcuate portion is selectively, removably coupled to the female end
of the second arcuate portion, wherein the female end has a hollow
portion defined by at least one side wall, at least one aperture is
formed in the at least one side wall wherein the male end has at
least button connector disposed on at least one side wall, the
button connector of the male end of the first arcuate portion
disposed in the aperture of the female end of the second arcuate
portion; at least one protrusion member coupled to the ring shaped
member, the at least one protrusion member extending radially
inwardly from the ring shaped member; and at least one tip member
disposed on the at least on protrusion member, wherein each of the
arcuate portions has a pair of hooks, with one of the pair of hooks
disposed adjacent to the male end and an other of the pair of hooks
disposed adjacent to the female end, wherein the at least one
protrusion member is a plurality of protrusion members including a
first protrusion member and a second protrusion member, each of the
protrusion members having a semi-circular shape, the first
protrusion member is disposed on the ring shaped member opposite to
where the second protrusion member is disposed on the ring shaped
member, wherein each of the female end and the male end have at
least one lock hole formed therethrough, the at least one lock hole
of the female end is disposed above the at least one lock hole of
the male end, the lock holes configured to receive a fastener.
20. A method of using a muscle therapy device, the method
comprising the steps of: providing the muscle therapy device, the
muscle therapy device having a ring shaped member, at least a
portion of the ring shaped member having an H-shaped cross section
defined by a channel and a center support member, each of the
channel and the center support member running a length of the
portion of the ring shaped member, wherein the H-shaped cross
section is adapted to stiffen the ring shaped member and the
channel is open and the center support member is exposed, at least
one protrusion member coupled to the ring shaped member, the at
least one protrusion extending radially inwardly from the ring
shaped member, and at least one tip member disposed on the at least
on protrusion member; positioning the muscle therapy device at a
predetermined location on a body of a user; applying pressure to
the muscle therapy device; and contacting the predetermined
location with the at least one tip member of the muscle therapy
device.
Description
BACKGROUND
The inventor herein have recognized a need for a muscle therapy
device that utilizes a substantially ring-shaped member having
protrusion members of varying lengths extending therefrom, that
could be utilized for muscle therapy treatments.
SUMMARY
A muscle therapy device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment
is provided. The muscle therapy device includes a substantially
ring-shaped member. The muscle therapy device further includes
first and second protrusion members that are coupled to the
substantially ring-shaped member and extend radially inwardly from
the substantially ring-shaped member. The first protrusion member
has a first length, and the second protrusion member has a second
length greater than the first length. The muscle therapy device
further includes first and second tip members being coupled to the
first and second protrusion members, respectively.
In one embodiment, a muscle therapy device has a ring shaped
member. At least a portion of the ring shaped member has an
H-shaped cross section, which is adapted to stiffen the ring shaped
member. At least one protrusion member is coupled to the ring
shaped member. The at least one protrusion extends radially
inwardly from the ring shaped member. At least one tip member is
disposed on the at least on protrusion member.
In another embodiment, a muscle therapy device, has a ring shaped
member. At least a portion of the ring shaped member has an
H-shaped cross section, which is adapted to stiffen the ring shaped
member. The ring shaped member has a plurality of arcuate portions
including a first arcuate portion and a second arcuate portion.
Each of the plurality of arcuate portions has a main body. The main
body has at least a portion with the H-shaped cross section
disposed between a male end and a female end. The male end of the
first arcuate portion is selectively, removably coupled to the
female end of the second arcuate portion. The female end has a
hollow portion defined by at least one side wall with at least one
aperture formed in the at least one side wall. The male end has at
least one button connector disposed on at least one side wall. The
button connector of the male end of the first arcuate portion is
disposed in the aperture of the female end of the second arcuate
portion. At least two protrusion members are coupled to the ring
shaped member. The at least two protrusion members extending
radially inwardly from the ring shaped member. Each of the
protrusion members have a semi-circular shape. The first protrusion
member is disposed on the ring shaped member opposite to where the
second protrusion member is disposed on the ring shaped member. At
least one tip member is disposed on the at least two protrusion
members. Each of the arcuate portions has a pair of hooks, with one
of the pair of hooks disposed adjacent to the male end and an other
of the pair of hooks disposed adjacent to the female end. Each of
the female end and the male end have at least one lock hole formed
therethrough. The at least one lock hole of the female end is
disposed above the at least one lock hole of the male end. The lock
holes are configured to receive a fastener.
In a further embodiment, a method of using a muscle therapy device,
the method comprising the steps of: providing the muscle therapy
device; positioning the muscle therapy device at a predetermined
location on a body of a user; applying pressure to the muscle
therapy device; and contacting the predetermined location with the
at least one tip member of the muscle therapy device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic of a muscle therapy device in accordance with
a first exemplary embodiment being utilized by a user;
FIG. 2 is a schematic of the muscle therapy device of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a schematic of a first side of the muscle therapy device
of FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 is a schematic of a second side of the muscle therapy device
of FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional schematic of the muscle therapy device
of FIG. 1;
FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the muscle therapy device of FIG.
1;
FIG. 7 is a schematic of a substantially ring-shaped member
utilized in the muscle therapy device of FIG. 1;
FIG. 8 is a schematic of a first attachment member, a first
protrusion member, and a first tip member utilized in the muscle
therapy device of FIG. 1;
FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the first attachment member, the
first protrusion member, and the first tip member of FIG. 8;
FIG. 10 is an enlarged schematic of the first tip member of FIG.
8;
FIG. 11 is a side view of the first tip member of FIG. 8;
FIG. 12 is a schematic of a second attachment member, a second
protrusion member, and a second tip member utilized in the muscle
therapy device of FIG. 1;
FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the second attachment member, the
second protrusion member, and the second tip member of FIG. 12;
FIG. 14 is a schematic of a third attachment member and a third tip
member utilized in the muscle therapy device of FIG. 1;
FIG. 15 is an exploded view of the third attachment member and the
third tip member of FIG. 14;
FIG. 16 is a schematic of a muscle therapy device in accordance
with a second exemplary embodiment;
FIG. 17 is a schematic of a first side of the muscle therapy device
of FIG. 16;
FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the muscle therapy device of FIG.
16;
FIG. 19 is a schematic of a first member utilized in the muscle
therapy device of FIG. 16;
FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional schematic of the first member of FIG.
19;
FIG. 21 is a schematic of an end portion of the first member of
FIG. 19;
FIG. 22 is a schematic of a coupling tip and a main tubular portion
of the first member of FIG. 19;
FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional schematic of the coupling tip and the
main tubular portion of FIG. 22;
FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional schematic of the muscle therapy device
of FIG. 17 taken along lines 24-24 in FIG. 17;
FIG. 25 is a schematic of a button connector utilized in the muscle
therapy device of FIG. 16;
FIG. 26 is another schematic of the button connector of FIG.
25;
FIG. 27 is a schematic of a second member utilized in the muscle
therapy device of FIG. 16;
FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional schematic of the second member of FIG.
27;
FIG. 29 is a schematic of an end portion of the second member of
FIG. 27;
FIG. 30 is a schematic of a coupling tip and a main tubular portion
of the second member of FIG. 27;
FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional schematic of the coupling tip and the
main tubular portion of the second member of FIG. 27;
FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional schematic of the muscle therapy device
of FIG. 17 taken along lines 32-32 in FIG. 17;
FIG. 33 is a schematic of a third member utilized in the muscle
therapy device of FIG. 16;
FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional schematic of the third member of FIG.
33;
FIG. 35 is a schematic of an end portion of the third member of
FIG. 33;
FIG. 36 is a schematic of a coupling tip and a main tubular portion
of the third member of FIG. 33;
FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional schematic of the coupling tip and the
main tubular portion of the third member of FIG. 33;
FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional schematic of the muscle therapy device
of FIG. 17 taken along lines 38-38 in FIG. 17;
FIG. 39 is a schematic of a fourth member utilized in the muscle
therapy device of FIG. 16;
FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional schematic of the fourth member of FIG.
39;
FIG. 41 is a schematic of an end portion of the fourth member of
FIG. 39;
FIG. 42 is a schematic of a coupling tip and a main tubular portion
of the fourth member of FIG. 39;
FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional schematic of the coupling tip and the
main tubular portion of the fourth member of FIG. 39;
FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional schematic of the muscle therapy device
of FIG. 17 taken along lines 44-44 in FIG. 17;
FIG. 45 is a schematic of an ultrasonic transducer assembly that
could replace a tip member in the muscle therapy device of FIG. 1
or the muscle therapy device of FIG. 16;
FIG. 46 is another schematic of the ultrasonic transducer assembly
of FIG. 45;
FIG. 47 is another schematic of the ultrasonic transducer assembly
of FIG. 45;
FIG. 48 is a block diagram of the ultrasonic transducer assembly of
FIG. 45;
FIG. 49 is a top perspective view of the muscle therapy device,
according to an additional embodiment of the present
disclosure;
FIG. 50 is a top plan view of the muscle therapy device shown in
FIG. 49;
FIG. 51 is a side elevational view of the muscle therapy device
shown in FIG. 49;
FIG. 52 is an exploded, top perspective view of the muscle therapy
device shown in FIG. 49;
FIG. 53 is an enlarged, cross sectional, side elevational view of a
connection between a female end and a male end of the muscle
therapy device taken at section line A-A in FIG. 49;
FIG. 54 is an enlarged, front perspective view of the male end
taken at callout C in FIG. 52;
FIG. 55 is an enlarged, front perspective view of the female end
taken at callout D in FIG. 52;
FIG. 56 is an enlarged, fragmentary, top plan view of the muscle
therapy device taken at callout B in FIG. 49, and further depicting
a pair of hooks connected to a elongate fastener; and
FIG. 57 is an enlarged, fragmentary, top perspective view of the
muscle therapy device taken at callout C of FIG. 52, and further
depicting an arcuate shape of the male end.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not
intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses. In
respect of the methods disclosed, the order of the steps presented
is exemplary in nature, and thus, is not necessary or critical
unless otherwise disclosed.
Referring to FIGS. 1-5, a muscle therapy device 10 that could be
utilized by a user 12 for muscle therapy treatments, in accordance
with an exemplary embodiment is provided. The muscle therapy device
10 includes a substantially ring-shaped member 20, attachment
members 31, 32, 33, rivets, 40, 42, 44, 46, 50, 52, 54, 56, 60, 62,
64, 66, protrusion members 71, 72, and tip members 81, 82, 83.
Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the substantially ring-shaped member 20
is a tubular member constructed of plastic and extends in a range
of 290.degree.-360.degree. in circumference. For example, in an
exemplary embodiment, the substantially ring-shaped member 20
extends 360.degree. in circumference. Further, for example, an
outer periphery of the substantially ring-shaped member 20 is
substantially circular-shaped, and an inner periphery of the
substantially ring-shaped member 20 is substantially
circular-shaped. In an alternative embodiment, an outer periphery
of the substantially ring-shaped member 20 is substantially
oval-shaped, and an inner periphery of the substantially
ring-shaped member 20 is substantially oval-shaped. Further, the
substantially ring-shaped member 20 is sized to receive a human
being (e.g., the user 12) within an interior region defined by the
substantially ring-shaped member 20. In an exemplary embodiment,
the substantially ring-shaped member 20 has an outer diameter in a
range of 24-30 inches. The substantially ring-shaped member 20
includes a first end portion 101 and a second end portion 102. The
first end portion 101 is disposed proximate to the second end
portion 102. Also, the substantially ring-shaped member 20 has
apertures 140, 142, 144, 146, 150, 152, 154, 156, 160, 162, 164,
166 extending therethrough for receiving rivets therethrough.
Referring to FIGS. 2, 6, 8 and 9, the attachment member 31 is
coupled to the first and second end portions 101, 102 of the
substantially ring-shaped member 20 such that the first and second
end portions 101, 102 are held in close proximity to one another.
The attachment member 31 is further coupled to the protrusion
member 71. The attachment member 31 includes a first tubular
portion 191 and a second tubular portion 192. The first tubular
portion 191 includes a first end portion 201 and a second end
portion 202. The first tubular portion 191 further includes
apertures 210, 214 extending through the first end portion 201, and
apertures 212, 216 extending through the second end portion 202.
The second tubular portion 192 is coupled to the first tubular
portion 191 between the first and second end portions 201, 202, and
extends substantially perpendicular to the first tubular portion
191. The first end portion 101 of the substantially ring-shaped
member 20 is disposed within and coupled to the first end portion
201 of the first tubular portion 191 of the attachment member 31.
Further, the second end portion 102 of the substantially
ring-shaped member 20 is disposed within and coupled to the second
end portion 202 of the first tubular portion 191 of the attachment
member 31.
Referring to FIGS. 6, 7 and 8, the rivet 40 is disposed through the
aperture 210 of the attachment member 31 and the aperture 140 of
the substantially ring-shaped member 20 to couple the attachment
member 31 to the substantially ring-shaped member 20. Further, the
rivet 42 is disposed through the aperture 212 of the attachment
member 31 and the aperture 142 of the substantially ring-shaped
member 20 to couple the attachment member 31 to the substantially
ring-shaped member 20. Also, the rivet 44 is disposed through the
aperture 214 of the attachment member 31 and the aperture 144 of
the substantially ring-shaped member 20 to couple the attachment
member 31 to the substantially ring-shaped member 20. Still
further, the rivet 46 is disposed through the aperture 216 of the
attachment member 31 and the aperture 146 of the substantially
ring-shaped member 20 to couple the attachment member 31 to the
substantially ring-shaped member 20.
Referring to FIGS. 6, 8 and 9, the protrusion member 71 is coupled
to the attachment member 31 (and indirectly coupled to the
substantially ring-shaped member 20) and extends radially inwardly
from the substantially ring-shaped member 20. The protrusion member
71 has a first length. The protrusion member 71 is a tubular
protrusion member and includes a first end portion 311 and a second
end portion 312. The first end portion 311 is coupled to the second
tubular portion 192 of the attachment member 31. In particular, the
first end portion 311 is disposed within the second tubular portion
192 and is adhesively bonded to the second tubular portion 192. In
an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion member 71 is constructed of
plastic. Of course, in an alternative embodiment, the protrusion
member 71 could be constructed of other materials such as a metal
for example.
Referring to FIGS. 9-11, the tip member 81 is coupled to the
protrusion member 71. In an exemplary embodiment, the tip member 81
includes a semi-spherical tip portion 330 and a shaft portion 332.
The shaft portion 332 is coupled to and extends from a flat surface
334 of the semi-spherical tip portion 330. The semi-spherical tip
portion 330 is a dome-shaped portion. The shaft portion 332 is
disposed in an interior region of the second end portion 312 of the
protrusion member 71 such that the semi-spherical tip portion 330
is disposed external of the protrusion member 71. In an exemplary
embodiment, the shaft portion 332 is adhesively bonded to the
protrusion member 71. Further, in an exemplary embodiment, a
diameter of the semi-spherical tip portion 330 is substantially
equal to a diameter of the protrusion member 71. Further, the tip
member 81 is constructed of plastic. In an alternative embodiment,
the tip member 81 could be constructed of other materials such as a
rubber compound for example.
Referring to FIGS. 2, 6, 12 and 13, the attachment member 32 is
coupled to the substantially ring-shaped member 20 and is further
coupled to the protrusion member 72. The attachment member 32
includes a first tubular portion 231 and a second tubular portion
232. The first tubular portion 231 includes a first end portion 241
and a second end portion 242. The first tubular portion 231 further
includes apertures 250, 254 extending through the first end portion
241, and apertures 252, 256 extending through the second end
portion 242. The second tubular portion 232 is coupled to the first
tubular portion 231 between the first and second end portions 241,
242, and extends substantially perpendicular to the first tubular
portion 231. The substantially ring-shaped member 20 extends
through the first tubular portion 231.
Referring to FIGS. 6, 12 and 13, the rivet 50 is disposed through
the aperture 250 of the attachment member 32 and the aperture 150
of the substantially ring-shaped member 20 to couple the attachment
member 32 to the substantially ring-shaped member 20. Further, the
rivet 52 is disposed through the aperture 252 of the attachment
member 32 and the aperture 152 of the substantially ring-shaped
member 20 to couple the attachment member 32 to the substantially
ring-shaped member 20. Also, the rivet 54 is disposed through the
aperture 254 of the attachment member 32 and the aperture 164 of
the substantially ring-shaped member 20 to couple the attachment
member 32 to the substantially ring-shaped member 20. Still
further, the rivet 56 is disposed through the aperture 256 of the
attachment member 32 and the aperture 166 of the substantially
ring-shaped member 20 to couple the attachment member 32 to the
substantially ring-shaped member 20.
The protrusion member 72 is coupled to the attachment member 32
(and indirectly coupled to the substantially ring-shaped member 20)
and extends radially inwardly from the substantially ring-shaped
member 20. The protrusion member 72 has a second length that is
less than the first length of the protrusion member 71 (shown in
FIG. 8). The protrusion member 72 is a tubular protrusion member
and includes a first end portion 321 and a second end portion 322.
The first end portion 321 is coupled to the second tubular portion
232 of the attachment member 32. In particular, the first end
portion 321 is disposed within the second tubular portion 232 and
is adhesively bonded to the second tubular portion 232. In an
exemplary embodiment, the protrusion member 72 is constructed of
plastic. Of course, in an alternative embodiment, the protrusion
member 72 could be constructed of other materials such as a metal
for example.
Referring to FIG. 13, the tip member 82 is coupled to the
protrusion member 72. In an exemplary embodiment, the tip member 82
includes a semi-spherical tip portion 350 and a shaft portion 352.
The shaft portion 352 is coupled to and extends from a flat surface
of the semi-spherical tip portion 350. The semi-spherical tip
portion 350 is a dome-shaped portion. The shaft portion 352 is
disposed in an interior region of the second end portion 322 of the
protrusion member 72 such that the semi-spherical tip portion 350
is disposed external of the protrusion member 72. In an exemplary
embodiment, the shaft portion 352 is adhesively bonded to the
protrusion member 72. Further, in an exemplary embodiment, a
diameter of the semi-spherical tip portion 350 is substantially
equal to a diameter of the protrusion member 72. In an exemplary
embodiment, the tip member 82 is constructed of plastic. In an
alternative embodiment, the tip member 82 could be constructed of
other materials such as a rubber compound for example.
Referring to FIGS. 6, 14 and 15, the attachment member 33 is
coupled to the substantially ring-shaped member 20 and is further
coupled to the tip member 83. The attachment member 33 includes a
first tubular portion 271 and a second tubular portion 272. The
first tubular portion 271 includes a first end portion 281 and a
second end portion 282. The first tubular portion 271 further
includes apertures 292, 294 extending through the first end portion
281, and apertures 290, 296 extending through the second end
portion 282. The second tubular portion 272 is coupled to the first
tubular portion 271 between the first and second end portions 281,
282, and extends substantially perpendicular to the first tubular
portion 271. The substantially ring-shaped member 20 extends
through the first tubular portion 271.
Referring to FIGS. 6, 7 and 15, the rivet 60 is disposed through
the aperture 290 of the attachment member 33 and the aperture 160
of the substantially ring-shaped member 20 to couple the attachment
member 33 to the substantially ring-shaped member 20. Further, the
rivet 62 is disposed through the aperture 292 of the attachment
member 33 and the aperture 162 of the substantially ring-shaped
member 20 to couple the attachment member 33 to the substantially
ring-shaped member 20. Also, the rivet 64 is disposed through the
aperture 296 of the attachment member 33 and the aperture 154 of
the substantially ring-shaped member 20 to couple the attachment
member 33 to the substantially ring-shaped member 20. Still
further, the rivet 66 is disposed through the aperture 294 of the
attachment member 33 and the aperture 154 of the substantially
ring-shaped member 20 to couple the attachment member 33 to the
substantially ring-shaped member 20.
Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the tip member 83 is coupled to the
second tubular portion 272. In an exemplary embodiment, the tip
member 83 is a spherical cap shaped tip member having an aperture
360 extending therein. The second tubular portion 272 of the
attachment member 33 is disposed within the aperture 360. In an
exemplary embodiment, the attachment member 33 is adhesively bonded
to the tip member 83. A diameter of the tip member 83 is greater
than a diameter of the semi-spherical tip portion 350 (shown in
FIG. 13) of the tip member 82. Also, the diameter of the tip member
83 is greater than a diameter of the semi-spherical tip portion 330
(shown in FIG. 9) of the tip member 81. In an exemplary embodiment,
the tip member 83 is constructed of plastic. In an alternative
embodiment, the tip member 83 could be constructed of other
materials such as a rubber compound for example.
Referring to FIG. 3, the attachment members 31, 32 are spaced
substantially 120 degrees apart from one another, and attachment
members 32, 33 are spaced substantially 120 degrees apart from one
another, and the attachment members 33, 31 are spaced substantially
120 degrees apart from one another.
Referring to FIGS. 16-18, a muscle therapy device 400 that could be
utilized by user 12 for muscle therapy treatments, in accordance
with another exemplary embodiment is provided. The muscle therapy
device 400 includes a first member 411, a second member 412, a
third member 413, and a fourth member 414. The first member 411 is
removably coupled to and between the second member 412 and the
fourth member 414. Further, the third member 413 is removably
coupled to and between the second member 412 and the fourth member
414.
Referring to FIGS. 17 and 19-24, the first member 411 includes an
arcuate-shaped portion 430, a protrusion member 432, and a tip
member 434. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion member 432
is integrally formed with the arcuate-shaped portion 430, and the
tip member 434 is integrally formed with the protrusion member
432.
The arcuate-shaped portion 430 includes a main tubular portion 450,
a coupling tip 452, and a button connector 454.
The main tubular portion 450 is constructed of plastic and has a
first end 461 and a second end 462. The main tubular portion 450
has an aperture 466 extending therethrough proximate to the second
end 462 thereof. The second end 462 of the main tubular portion 450
has first and second internal grooves 480, 482 (shown in FIG. 24)
extending from an interior surface of the main tubular portion 450
into the main tubular portion 450.
Referring to FIG. 22, the coupling tip 452 is constructed of
plastic and is coupled to and extends from the first end 461 of the
main tubular portion 450. The coupling tip 452 has a tubular wall
500 and tabs 502, 504 extending outwardly from the tubular wall
500.
Referring to FIGS. 16, 20 and 23-26, the button connector 454 is
provided to removably couple the first member 411 to the second
member 412. The button connector 454 has a v-shaped body 520 and a
button tab 522 coupled to the v-shaped body 520. The v-shaped body
520 is disposed within the coupling tip 452 such that the button
tab 522 extends through the aperture 508 (shown in FIG. 23) of the
tubular wall 500 of the coupling tip 452 and is exposed external to
the coupling tip 452. The button tab 522 is depressed when coupling
the first member 411 to the second member 412. In an exemplary
embodiment, the button connector 454 is constructed of spring
steel.
Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the protrusion member 432 is
constructed of plastic and is coupled to the arcuate-shaped portion
430 and extends radially inwardly from the arcuate-shaped portion
430. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion member 432 is a
tubular member. The protrusion member 432 has a first length.
The tip member 434 is disposed and coupled to a distal end of the
protrusion member 432. A diameter of the tip member 434 is greater
than a diameter of the protrusion member 432. The tip member 434
could be constructed of plastic or a rubber compound.
Referring to FIGS. 17 and 27-32, the second member 412 includes an
arcuate-shaped portion 630, a protrusion member 632, and a tip
member 634. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion member 632
is integrally formed with the arcuate-shaped portion 630, and the
tip member 634 is integrally formed with the protrusion member
632.
The arcuate-shaped portion 630 includes a main tubular portion 650,
a coupling tip 652, and a button connector 654.
The main tubular portion 650 is constructed of plastic and has a
first end 661 and a second end 662. The main tubular portion 650
has an aperture 666 extending therethrough proximate to the second
end 662 thereof. The second end 662 of the main tubular portion 650
has first and second internal grooves 680, 682 (shown in FIG. 32)
extending from an interior surface of the main tubular portion 650
into the main tubular portion 650.
Referring to FIG. 30, the coupling tip 652 is constructed of
plastic and is coupled to and extends from the first end 661 of the
main tubular portion 650. The coupling tip 652 has a tubular wall
700 and tabs 702, 704 extending outwardly from the tubular wall
700.
Referring to FIGS. 28, 31 and 32, the button connector 654 is
provided to removably couple the second member 412 to the third
member 413. The button connector 654 has a v-shaped body 720 and a
button tab 722 coupled to the v-shaped body 720. The v-shaped body
720 is disposed within the coupling tip 652 such that the button
tab 722 extends through the aperture 708 (shown in FIG. 29) of the
tubular wall 700 of the coupling tip 652 and is exposed external to
the coupling tip 652. The button tab 722 is depressed when coupling
the second member 412 to the third member 413. In an exemplary
embodiment, the button connector 654 is constructed of spring
steel.
Referring to FIGS. 27 and 28, the protrusion member 632 is
constructed of plastic and is coupled to the arcuate-shaped portion
630 and extends radially inwardly from the arcuate-shaped portion
630. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion member 632 is a
tubular member. The protrusion member 632 has a second length which
is less than the first length of the protrusion member 432 (shown
in FIG. 20).
The tip member 634 is disposed and coupled to a distal end of the
protrusion member 632. A diameter of the tip member 634 is greater
than a diameter of the protrusion member 632. The tip member 634
could be constructed of plastic or a rubber compound.
Referring to FIGS. 23 and 32, a brief description of the coupling
of the second member 412 to the first member 411 will be explained.
The coupling tip 452 of the first member 411 is inserted into the
main tubular portion 650 of the arcuate-shaped portion 630 of the
second member 412 such that the tabs 502, 504 of the coupling tip
452 of the first member 411 are received in the internal grooves
680, 682 of the main tubular portion 650 of the arcuate-shaped
portion 630 of the second member 412. Further, the button tab 522
of the first member 411 is depressed during the insertion of the
coupling tip 452 into the main tubular portion 650, and thereafter
is biased through the aperture 866 of the main tubular portion 650
of the arcuate-shaped portion 630 of the second member 412--to
couple the second member 412 to the first member 411.
Referring to FIGS. 17 and 33-38, the third member 413 includes an
arcuate-shaped portion 830, a protrusion member 832, and a tip
member 834. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion member 832
is integrally formed with the arcuate-shaped portion 830, and the
tip member 834 is integrally formed with the protrusion member
832.
The arcuate-shaped portion 830 includes a main tubular portion 850,
a coupling tip 852, and a button connector 854.
The main tubular portion 850 is constructed of plastic and has a
first end 861 and a second end 862. The main tubular portion 850
has an aperture 866 extending therethrough proximate to the second
end 862 thereof. The second end 862 of the main tubular portion 850
has first and second internal grooves 880, 882 (shown in FIG. 38)
extending from an interior surface of the main tubular portion 850
into the main tubular portion 850.
Referring to FIG. 36, the coupling tip 852 is constructed of
plastic and is coupled to and extends from the first end 861 of the
main tubular portion 850. The coupling tip 852 has a tubular wall
900 and tabs 902, 904 extending outwardly from the tubular wall
900.
Referring to FIGS. 34 and 37, the button connector 854 is provided
to removably couple the third member 413 to the fourth member 414.
The button connector 854 has a v-shaped body 920 and a button tab
922 coupled to the v-shaped body 920. The v-shaped body 920 is
disposed within the coupling tip 852 such that the button tab 922
extends through the aperture 908 (shown in FIG. 37) of the tubular
wall 900 of the coupling tip 852 and is exposed external to the
coupling tip 852. The button tab 922 is depressed when coupling the
third member 413 to the fourth member 414. In an exemplary
embodiment, the button connector 854 is constructed of spring
steel.
Referring to FIGS. 33 and 34, the protrusion member 832 is
constructed of plastic and is coupled to the arcuate-shaped portion
830 and extends radially inwardly from the arcuate-shaped portion
830. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion member 832 is a
tubular member. The protrusion member 832 has a third length which
is less than the first length of the protrusion member 432 (shown
in FIG. 17).
The tip member 834 is disposed and coupled to a distal end of the
protrusion member 832. A diameter of the tip member 834 is greater
than a diameter of the protrusion member 832. The tip member 834
could be constructed of plastic or a rubber compound.
Referring to FIGS. 30, 31 and 38, a brief description of the
coupling of the third member 413 to the second member 412 will be
explained. The coupling tip 652 of the second member 412 is
inserted into the main tubular portion 850 of the arcuate-shaped
portion 830 of the third member 413 such that the tabs 702, 704 of
the coupling tip 652 of the second member 412 are received in the
internal grooves 880, 882 of the main tubular portion 850 of the
arcuate-shaped portion 830 of the third member 413. Further, the
button tab 722 of the second member 412 is depressed during the
insertion of the coupling tip 652 into the main tubular portion
850, and thereafter is biased through the aperture 866 of the main
tubular portion 850 of the arcuate-shaped portion 830 of the third
member 413--to couple the third member 413 to the second member
412.
Referring to FIGS. 17 and 39-44, the fourth member 414 includes an
arcuate-shaped portion 1030, a protrusion member 1032, and a tip
member 1034. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion member 1032
is integrally formed with the arcuate-shaped portion 1030, and the
tip member 1034 is integrally formed with the protrusion member
1032.
The arcuate-shaped portion 1030 includes a main tubular portion
1050, a coupling tip 1052, and a button connector 1054.
The main tubular portion 1050 is constructed of plastic and has a
first end 1061 and a second end 1062. The main tubular portion 1050
has an aperture 1066 extending therethrough proximate to the second
end 1062 thereof. The second end 1062 of the main tubular portion
1050 has first and second internal grooves 1080, 1082 (shown in
FIG. 44) extending from an interior surface of the main tubular
portion 1050 into the main tubular portion 1050.
Referring to FIG. 42, the coupling tip 1052 is constructed of
plastic and is coupled to and extends from the first end 1061 of
the main tubular portion 1050. The coupling tip 1052 has a tubular
wall 1100 and tabs 1102, 1104 extending outwardly from the tubular
wall 1100.
Referring to FIGS. 40 and 43, the button connector 1054 is provided
to removably couple the fourth member 414 to the first member 411.
The button connector 1054 has a v-shaped body 1120 and a button tab
1122 coupled to the v-shaped body 1120. The v-shaped body 1120 is
disposed within the coupling tip 1052 such that the button tab 1122
extends through the aperture 1108 (shown in FIG. 43) of the tubular
wall 1100 of the coupling tip 1052 and is exposed external to the
coupling tip 1052. The button tab 1122 is depressed when coupling
the fourth member 414 to the first member 411. In an exemplary
embodiment, the button connector 1054 is constructed of spring
steel.
Referring to FIGS. 39 and 40, the protrusion member 1032 is
constructed of plastic and is coupled to the arcuate-shaped portion
1030 and extends radially inwardly from the arcuate-shaped portion
1030. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion member 1032 is a
tubular member. The protrusion member 1032 has a fourth length
which is less than the first length of the protrusion member 432
(shown in FIG. 17).
The tip member 1034 is disposed and coupled to a distal end of the
protrusion member 1032. A diameter of the tip member 1034 is
greater than a diameter of the protrusion member 1032. The tip
member 1034 could be constructed of plastic or a rubber
compound.
Referring to FIGS. 36, 37 and 44, a brief description of the
coupling of the fourth member 414 to the third member 413 will be
explained. The coupling tip 852 of the third member 413 is inserted
into the main tubular portion 1050 of the arcuate-shaped portion
1030 of the fourth member 414 such that the tabs 902, 904 (shown in
FIG. 44) of the coupling tip 852 of the third member 413 are
received in the internal grooves 1080, 1082 of the main tubular
portion 1050 of the arcuate-shaped portion 1030 of the fourth
member 414. Further, the button tab 922 of the third member 413 is
depressed during the insertion of the coupling tip 852 into the
main tubular portion 1050, and thereafter is biased through the
aperture 1066 of the main tubular portion 1050 of the
arcuate-shaped portion 1030 of the fourth member 414--to couple the
fourth member 414 to the third member 413.
Referring to FIGS. 24, 42 and 43, a brief description of the
coupling of the fourth member 414 to the first member 411 will be
explained. The coupling tip 1052 of the fourth member 414 is
inserted into the main tubular portion 450 of the arcuate-shaped
portion 430 of the first member 411 such that the tabs 1102, 1104
(shown in FIG. 42) of the coupling tip 1052 of the fourth member
414 are received in the internal grooves 480, 482 of the main
tubular portion 450 of the arcuate-shaped portion 430 of the first
member 411. Further, the button tab 1122 of the fourth member 414
is depressed during the insertion of the coupling tip 1052 into the
main tubular portion 450, and thereafter is biased through the
aperture 466 of the main tubular portion 450 of the arcuate-shaped
portion 430 of the first member 411--to couple the fourth member
414 to the first member 411.
It is noted that when the arcuate-shaped portions 430, 630, 830,
1030 are coupled together, the arcuate-shaped portions 430, 630,
830, 1030 define a substantially ring-shaped member. In an
exemplary embodiment, an outer periphery of the coupled
arcuate-shaped portions 430, 630, 830, 1030 is substantially
circular-shaped, and an inner periphery of the coupled
arcuate-shaped portions 430, 630, 830, 1030 is substantially
circular-shaped. In an alternative embodiment, an outer periphery
of the coupled arcuate-shaped portions 430, 630, 830, 1030 is
substantially oval-shaped, and an inner periphery of the coupled
arcuate-shaped portions 430, 630, 830, 1030 is substantially
oval-shaped.
Referring to FIGS. 45-48, an ultrasonic transducer assembly 1204
that could replace any of the above-described tip members is
illustrated. The ultrasonic transducer assembly 1204 includes a
housing 1220, an attachment bracket 1221, an ultrasonic transducer
1222, extension members 1224, 1226, 1228, a switch 1230, and a
battery 1232.
The ultrasonic transducer 1222 and the battery 1232 are disposed in
the housing 1220. The ultrasonic transducer 1222 is operably
coupled to the extension members 1224, 1226, 1228 which extend
outwardly from the housing 1220.
The attachment bracket 1221 is adapted to removably couple the
housing 1220 to any of the above-described protrusion members of
the muscle therapy device 10 or the muscle therapy device 400.
The switch is disposed on an exterior of the housing 1220. The
switch 1230 is electrically coupled in series between the battery
1232 and the ultrasonic transducer 122. When the switch 1230 has a
closed operational position, an operational voltage from the
battery 1232 is applied to the ultrasonic transducer 1222 which
vibrates the extension members 1224, 1226, 1228 which could contact
body portions of the user 12. When the switch 1230 has an open
operational position, an operational voltage from the battery 1232
is removed from the ultrasonic transducer 1222 which stops
vibrating the extension members 1224, 1226, 1228.
In yet another embodiment, for example, as depicted in FIGS. 49-57,
a muscle therapy device 1300 may have a ring shaped member 1302.
The ring shaped member 1302 may have at least a portion that has an
H-shaped cross section. Advantageously, the ring shape and the
H-shaped cross section of the ring shaped member 1302 improve the
rigidity and durability of the muscle therapy device. It should be
further appreciated that ring shape and the H-shaped cross section
of the ring shaped member 1302 militate against undesirable bending
of the muscle therapy device 1300, in operation.
The ring shaped member 1302 may also have at least one protrusion
member 1304. The at least one protrusion member 1304 may be coupled
to the ring shaped member 1302 such that the at least one
protrusion 1304 extends radially inwardly from the ring shaped
member 1302. At least one tip member 1306 may be disposed on the at
least on protrusion member 1304.
The ring shaped member 1302 may include a plurality of arcuate
portions 1308. In particular the plurality of arcuate portions 1308
may include a first arcuate portion 1310 and a second arcuate
portion 1312, for example, as shown in FIGS. 49 and 52. The
plurality of arcuate portions 1308 may be removably connected to
form the ring shaped member 1302. In a particular example, there
are four (4) of the arcuate portions 1308 that together connect to
form the ring shaped member 1302 upon assembly. However, a skilled
artisan may select any other suitable number of arcuate portions
1308, as desired.
Each of the arcuate portions 1308 may include a main body 1314. At
least a portion of the main body 1314 may have the H-shaped cross
section. The main body 1310 may be disposed between a female end
1316 and a male end 1318. Advantageously, the female end 1316 of
the first arcuate portion 1310 may interact with the male end 1318
of the second arcuate portion 1312 and thereby connecting the first
and second arcuate portions 1310, 1312.
More specifically, and as shown in FIG. 55, the female end 1316 of
each of the arcuate portions 1308 may be hollow. The female end
1316 may be defined by at least one arcuate side wall 1320. The
female end 1316 may have at least one aperture 1322, for example,
as shown in FIGS. 52 and 53, that is formed through the at least
one arcuate side wall 1320. It should be appreciated that the
female end 1316 is defined by arcuate surfaces, such that the
female end 1316 has an arcuate shape.
As depicted in FIG. 54, the male end 1318 of each of the arcuate
portions 1308 may be defined by at least one arcuate side wall
1324. At least one button connector 1326 may be formed in the at
least one arcuate side wall 1324. The button connector 1326 may
have a tapered surface such that a portion of the button connector
1326 is raised at an angle above the at least one sidewall 1324 of
the male end 1318, for example, as shown in FIG. 54. The button
connector 1326 may be configured to be depressed below the at least
one side wall 1326 in operation. It should be appreciated that the
male end 1318 is defined by arcuate surfaces, such that the male
end 1318 has an arcuate shape, for example, as shown in FIG. 57 by
comparison to a straight line axis.
The button connector 1326 may have a like shape, which corresponds
with a shape of the aperture 1322 of the female end 1316 of each of
the arcuate portions 1308. In operation, the user may insert the
male end 1318 of the first arcuate portion 1310 into the female end
1316 of the second arcuate portion 1312. The button connector may
be depressed automatically due to the tapered surface, thereby
allowing the male end 1318 to be disposed in the female end 1316.
The button connector 1326 may then snap into place in the aperture
1322 of the female end 1316 due to a spring force associated with
the button connector 1326. The first and second arcuate portion
1310, 1312 may then be separated by a user manually depressing the
button connector 1326 from the aperture 1322, thereby permitting
the male end 1318 to be removed from the female end 1316 of the
adjacent arcuate portions 1308.
In a most particular embodiment, as shown in FIG. 53, each of the
first and second arcuate portions 1310, 1312 may have a pair of
button connectors 1326. Each of the button connectors may be
disposed on opposite side walls 1324. Each of the arcuate portions
1308 may have a pair of apertures 1322. The apertures 1322 may be
disposed on the opposite side walls 1320.
It should be appreciated that a skilled artisan may select any
suitable size, shape, and configuration for the elements of the
female end 1316 and the male end 1318 of each of the arcuate
portions 1308, as desired.
As depicted in FIGS. 53 and 56, the female end 1316 may have a lock
hole 1328 formed in the at least one arcuate side wall 1320. The
male end 1318 may also have a lock hole 1330 formed in the at least
one arcuate side wall 1324, as shown in FIG. 57. Each of the lock
holes 1328, 1330 are positioned such that the lock hole 1328 of the
female end 1316 is aligned with the lock hole 1330 of the male end
1318 where the first and second arcuate portions 1310, 1312 are
connected. A lock screw 1332 may be disposed through the lock holes
1328, 1330 where aligned. Advantageously, the lock holes 1328, 1330
and the lock screw 1332 secure the first arcuate portion 1310 to
the second arcuate portion 1312, thereby militating against the
arcuate portion 1310 and the second arcuate portion 1312
undesirably separating during use. A skilled artisan may select any
other suitable means for securing the first arcuate portion 1310 to
the second arcuate portion 1312 within the scope of the present
disclosure.
With reference to FIG. 56, the main body 1314 of each of the
arcuate portions 1308 may have at least one storage hole 1334
formed therein. The storage hole 1334 may be configured to receive
the lock screw 1332 where the lock screw is not in use to secure
the first arcuate portion 1310 to the second arcuate portion 1312.
Advantageously, the storage hole 1334 may militate against an
undesirable loss of the lock screw 1332 where not in use. A skilled
artisan may select any other suitable fastener to secure the first
arcuate portion 1310 to the second arcuate portion 1312.
As shown in FIG. 56, the main body 1314 of each of the arcuate
portions 1308 may further have at least one hook 1336. The hook
1336 may be disposed in an aperture adjacent to at least one of the
female end 1316 and the male end 1318. The hook 1336 may be
configured to receive an elongate fastener 1338. As a non-limiting
example, the elongate fastener 1338 may be a rubber band. A skilled
artisan may select any suitable fastener to connect the hooks 1336
of the muscle therapy device, as desired.
In operation, the elongate fastener 1338 may disposed on both the
hook 1336 of the first arcuate portion 1310 and the hook 1336 of
the second arcuate portion 1310 where the first arcuate portion
1310 is disconnected from the second arcuate portion 1312.
Advantageously, the elongate fastener 1338 may aid the user in
correctly aligning the first arcuate portion 1310 and the second
arcuate portion 1312 during an assembly process, in order to
connect the first and second arcuate portions 1310, 1312.
With renewed reference to FIGS. 49 and 50, each of the arcuate
portions 108 may include the at least one protrusion member 1304
with the least one tip member 1306 disposed thereon. In a more
particular embodiment, two of the arcuate portions 108 may include
the protrusion member 1304 having a tip member 1306. Where the
plurality of arcuate portions 1308 are connected to form the ring
shaped member 1302, one of protrusion members 1304 may be disposed
on the ring shaped member directly across from where an other one
of the protrusion members 1304 is disposed on the ring shaped
member 1302, for example, as shown in FIGS. 49-50 and 52.
The protrusion member 1304 may have a shape configured to provide
rigidity to the structure of the protrusion member 1304. As a
non-limiting example, the protrusion member 1304 maybe semicircular
or arch shaped. The tip member 1306 may be disposed at an apex of
the arch. A skilled artisan may select any suitable shape for the
protrusion member 1304, as desired.
As shown in FIG. 52, the muscle therapy device 1300 may further
include a protective cover 1340. The protective cover 1340 may be
disposed on at least a portion of the ring shaped member 1302. More
specifically, the protective cover 1340 may be disposed on the ring
shaped member 1302 below the arch of the protrusion member 1304, as
shown in FIG. 53. As a non-liming example, the protective cover
1340 may be formed from a neoprene material; however, other
suitable materials may also be employed within the scope of the
present disclosure. Advantageously, the protective cover 1340 may
militate against damage to the user's wall or the muscle therapy
device 1300, in operation. A skilled artisan may select other
suitable placements for the protective cover 1340, as desired.
The present disclosure further includes a method for using the
muscle therapy device 1300, as shown in FIG. 1, and also detailed
hereinbelow. A first step of the method may be providing the muscle
therapy device 1300, as described hereinabove.
A second step of the method may be positioning the muscle therapy
device 1300 at a predetermined location. The user may require the
muscle therapy device 1300 at a location such as the user's back or
neck. The user may position the muscle therapy device 1300 such
that the tip member 1306 of the protrusion member 1304 is
positioned adjacent to the predetermined location.
A third step in the method may be applying pressure to the muscle
therapy device 1300. When the muscle therapy device is in the
predetermined location, the user may apply pressure to the device.
The pressure may be applied by pushing the muscle therapy device
1300 away from the user's body. Alternatively, the user may push
the muscle therapy device 1300 against a wall, with the muscle
therapy device 1300 being disposed between the body of the user and
the wall.
A fourth step in the method may be contacting the predetermined
location with the tip member 1306 of the muscle therapy device
1300. When the user applies pressure to the muscle therapy device
1300, the tip member 1306 may contact the predetermined location.
The user may repeat this process, as necessary, to treat the
predetermined location with the muscle therapy device 1300.
The muscle therapy device 10, 400, 1300 described herein provide a
substantial advantage over other devices. In particular, an
advantage of the muscle therapy device 10, 400, 1300 is that it
utilizes a substantially ring-shaped member 20, 1302 having first
and second protrusions members 71, 72, 432, 632, 832, 1032, 1304
with different lengths that could easily contact different body
portions of a user. Further, the substantially ring-shaped member
20, 1302 allows the user to more easily apply a force from the tip
members 81, 82, 83, 434, 634, 834, 1034, 1306 of the muscle therapy
device 10, 400, 1300 to body portions of the user, as compared to
non-ring shaped devices.
While the claimed invention has been described in detail in
connection with only a limited number of embodiments, it should be
readily understood that the invention is not limited to such
disclosed embodiments. Rather, the claimed invention could be
modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations,
substitutions or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described,
but which are commensurate with the spirit and scope of the
invention. Additionally, while various embodiments of the claimed
invention have been described, it is to be understood that aspects
of the invention may include only some of the described
embodiments. Accordingly, the claimed invention is not to be seen
as limited by the foregoing description.
* * * * *
References